Hello! I'm Dr. Smith, a hepatologist with over 20 years of experience in the field of liver disease. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of hepatitis B and other liver-related illnesses.

Let's delve into your question about how hepatitis B affects the body.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that specifically targets the liver, leading to inflammation and damage. It's caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and can manifest in both acute and chronic forms.

**Understanding the Virus and Transmission:**

HBV is a hardy virus, capable of surviving outside the body for extended periods. It spreads through contact with infected blood and bodily fluids. Common modes of transmission include:

* Unprotected Sexual Contact: HBV can be transmitted through sexual intercourse with an infected individual without the use of barrier protection.
* Sharing Needles: Sharing needles for intravenous drug use is a high-risk activity for HBV transmission.
* Mother-to-Child Transmission: Infected mothers can transmit the virus to their babies during childbirth.
* Exposure to Infected Blood: Contact with infected blood through accidental needle sticks or cuts from contaminated objects poses a risk.
* Household Contact: While less common, transmission can occur through sharing personal hygiene items like razors or toothbrushes with an infected individual.

The Course of Infection:

Upon entering the body, HBV targets liver cells, called hepatocytes. The virus replicates within these cells, triggering an immune response.

Acute Hepatitis B:

The initial infection is often silent, meaning many people experience no symptoms. When symptoms do arise, they typically appear 1 to 4 months after exposure and can last several weeks. Common symptoms include:

* Fatigue: A persistent feeling of tiredness and lack of energy.
* Loss of Appetite: Decreased desire to eat and subsequent weight loss.
* Nausea and Vomiting: Feelings of sickness in the stomach, often accompanied by vomiting.
* Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen, where the liver is located.
* Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes due to the buildup of bilirubin in the blood.
* Dark Urine: Urine may appear dark brown or tea-colored.
* Clay-Colored Stools: Stools may become pale or clay-colored due to reduced bile flow.
* Joint Pain: Some individuals experience pain and stiffness in their joints.

Most adults with acute hepatitis B recover fully, even without treatment. However, some individuals develop a chronic infection.

Chronic Hepatitis B:

Chronic hepatitis B occurs when the body's immune system fails to clear the virus, leading to a long-term infection. This can have serious consequences over time. Many people with chronic HBV experience no symptoms for years, even decades. However, the virus continues to damage the liver silently.

**Long-Term Effects of Chronic Hepatitis B:**

* Cirrhosis: Over time, chronic inflammation leads to scarring (fibrosis) of the liver, eventually developing into cirrhosis. Cirrhosis impairs the liver's ability to function properly.
* Liver Failure: In advanced stages of cirrhosis, the liver may fail, becoming unable to perform its essential functions. Liver failure is life-threatening and often requires a liver transplant.
* Liver Cancer: People with chronic HBV are at a significantly increased risk of developing liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).
* Other Complications: Chronic HBV can also lead to other health problems, including kidney disease, blood vessel inflammation, and bone disease.

Prevention and Treatment:

Fortunately, we have effective tools to prevent and manage hepatitis B:

* Vaccination: The hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective in preventing HBV infection. It is recommended for all infants and children, as well as adults at risk of infection.
* Antiviral Medications: For individuals with chronic HBV, antiviral medications can help suppress the virus, reduce liver damage, and lower the risk of complications like cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Remember, early detection and management are crucial in preventing serious liver damage from HBV infection. If you have any concerns about hepatitis B or your risk factors, please consult a healthcare professional.
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Hepatitis B is an infection of your liver. It can cause scarring of the organ, liver failure, and cancer. It can be fatal if it isn't treated. It's spread when people come in contact with the blood, open sores, or body fluids of someone who has the hep B virus.read more >>